These Crispy Anchovies with Soy Sauce are a quintessentially Malaysian snack or condiment, and super easy to make, combining the irresistible crunch of golden-brown anchovies with a balance of sweet, savory, and spicy elements through the rich flavors of soy sauce, garlic, chilies, and tangy calamansi juice.
Anchovies, despite their small size, pack a big punch when it comes to flavor. These tiny fish are known for their intensely savory taste, which becomes even more pronounced when they are fried to crispy perfection. The key to achieving this irresistible crunch is to heat oil in a pan and fry the anchovies until they turn a beautiful golden brown. This step not only enhances their texture but also amplifies their umami-rich flavor.
Crispy anchovies with soy sauce is all about creating a harmonious balance of flavors. The dish marries the saltiness of the anchovies with the sweet notes of brown sugar, while the dark soy sauce adds depth and a hint of bitterness. The sliced garlic, red chili, green chili, and red onion bring a touch of heat and pungency to the dish.
What sets this dish apart is the zesty twist brought by calamansi juice. Calamansi, a small citrus fruit native to Southeast Asia, adds a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness of the soy sauce and complements the heat from the chilies. Its unique flavor profile adds an element of surprise to every bite.
Crispy anchovies with soy sauce can be served as a snack, appetiser, side dish, or even as a topping on your rice. They are best served fresh out of the pan, but you can also store them and whip them out whenever you need extra condiments during meals. This dish is also served throughout Southeast Asia, such as in Indonesia and the Philippines, reflecting the region’s love for bold flavors and its ingenious use of local ingredients. So let’s jump right in!
Watch How To Make It
Crispy Anchovies with Soy Sauce
Ingredients
- 150 g anchovies
- 3 cloves garlic sliced
- 1 red chilli sliced
- 1 green chilli sliced
- 1/2 red onion sliced
- 4 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 2 calamansi juiced
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan and stir fry the anchovies until they become golden brown. Once done, set them aside.
- In the same pan, stir fry the garlic, chillies and red onion on medium heat until fragrant. Then add the dark soy sauce, calamansi juice and mix.
- Return the fried anchovies to the pan, then add the brown sugar. Coat the anchovies well and serve!